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Many homeowners often ask: Do I need trace and access cover on my home insurance? The short answer is yes-if you’re concerned about the potential damage and cost associated with locating a hidden water leak. This cover, often referred to as ‘access covers,’ pertains to the costs associated with locating and repairing leaks in a building. It can make the difference between a swift, insured resolution and a costly DIY recovery when leaks go unnoticed beneath floors or inside walls.
To understand how Trace & Access works, you can also visit our Trace and Access page.
What Is Trace and Access Cover?
Trace and access cover, often part of your buildings insurance policy, pays for detecting and reaching the source of a water leak in your home. This cover is particularly useful for locating and accessing damaged pipes that are hidden within the structure of the home. This includes the use of specialist tools like thermal imaging, moisture meters, and acoustic sensors. If you’re dealing with a leaking pipe hidden beneath flooring or walls, this cover ensures you won’t bear the full financial burden of finding it.
According to Aviva, tracing a leak without this cover could cost thousands of pounds, especially if floors or walls need removing.
Is It Included in Every Home Insurance Policy?
Unfortunately, no. Some home insurance policies offer trace and access cover as standard, but others require it as an add-on. Always review your insurance policy documents or speak with your insurance provider to understand whether this crucial cover is included, as levels of cover vary between different policies.
MoneyHelper advises checking your policy limits and conditions to ensure you’re not underinsured.
Which? also offers a helpful breakdown of what different policies typically include.
What Costs Does Trace and Access Cover Include?
This cover typically covers the cost of the labour, time, and equipment used to find the source of a leak. In most cases, it does not cover the cost of the repair itself-just the investigation and any removal of materials required to access the leak.
Some access insurance policies also cover the costs of reinstating walls or flooring after work is completed. Coverage limits vary greatly but often fall between £5,000 and £10,000.
According to GoCompare, not all policies automatically cover trace and access costs, so it’s worth comparing quotes carefully.
Why Might I Need Trace and Access Cover?
Leaks can happen anywhere in your plumbing or heating systems, including underground pipes and behind walls. Without this cover, you’re responsible for both the damage and the professional time it takes to trace the leak.
Examples include:
A sudden drop in water pressure
A damp patch with no clear cause
A spike in your water bill
A boiler losing pressure unexpectedly
Addressing leaks promptly with trace and access cover can prevent further damage to the property.
All of these may require immediate intervention from a professional using trace and access techniques.
Does Home Emergency Cover Include Trace and Access?
In most cases, home emergency cover deals with immediate threats like a burst pipe but may not include the cost of locating a slow or hidden leak. That’s where trace and access becomes invaluable.
Documenting any emergency repairs can assist in ensuring a smooth and efficient claims process.
Check with your insurance provider whether you’re covered under both policies. Some insurers require a separate access claim to be raised for trace and access.
More details are available from the Financial Ombudsman Service, which outlines dispute resolutions relating to such claims.
Are Underground Pipes Covered?
Many buildings insurance policies exclude underground pipes unless explicitly stated. Coverage for underground pipes typically applies to those located on the homeowner’s private land. This is where trace and access insurance becomes essential. When a leak occurs below your driveway or garden, identifying the exact source without damaging the surrounding area requires specialist equipment-and that’s rarely cheap.
Confused.com explains how trace and access cover can mitigate these challenges and what kind of policies offer protection for underground plumbing.
What Happens During a Trace and Access Claim?
After you notice signs of a leak, contact your insurance company immediately. A loss adjuster may assess the damage and instruct an approved leak detection specialist or access company. Once the source of the leak is found, it is crucial to have the damaged area repaired promptly. The insurance claim process continues for repairs and reinstatement.
If your policy covers access costs, you won’t need to pay upfront for the investigation.
What If I Don’t Have This Cover?
Without trace and access cover, you’ll be responsible for:
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Hiring a local plumber or detection expert
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Covering the cost of tracing the leak
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Repairing any damage caused during the investigation
In some cases, your home insurer might only reimburse partial costs or deny the claim entirely. Most insurance policies do not cover damage caused by general wear and tear.
How 0800 Homefix Can Help
At 0800 Homefix, we provide expert leak detection services using non-invasive techniques such as thermal imaging, moisture mapping, and pressure testing. Whether you’re working with an insurance provider or paying out of pocket, we ensure you receive accurate reporting and effective solutions.
Our engineers are highly trained to work on:
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Heating systems
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Hot and cold water pipes
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Central heating systems
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Toilets, taps, and all standard appliances
We can also liaise directly with your insurer to support a successful claim.
Final Thoughts
So, do I need trace and access cover on my home insurance? Absolutely. It’s one of the most valuable additions to your home insurance policy, especially when hidden leaks could cause extensive property damage.
Investing in this cover now can save you from massive costs and long-term disruption later. Whether you’re reviewing a new policy or upgrading your existing one, make sure your home insurance policy provides adequate cover for trace and access-and if not, speak with your insurance company today.
Need Trace and Access Support Now?
Contact 0800 Homefix to book your inspection or request help with a current or future trace and access claim. 0800 Homefix offers specialist trace and access services to help homeowners with their insurance claims.
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